Outlaw Outdoors announce forward-facing sonar ban, TTO goes with “Catch 5 First” rule in 2026.

Story and photography by Matt Williams

Two of Texas’ most popular amateur only team bass tournament trails are revamping their 2026 rules regarding angler use of forward-facing sonar technology on competition days in hopes of boosting angler participation numbers and putting some fun and interest back in tournament fishing.

Interestingly, one circuit is calling for a complete ban on technology, while the other will putting a unique twist in their rules that is sure to stir some interest bassin’ buffs. You gotta catch a limit the “old school” way first.

Both announcements came last summer. Here’s the deal:

Outlaw Outdoors: Full ban

The owners of Outlaw Outdoors announced their organization is joining the budding list of bass tournament trails around the country that are choosing to ban the use of forward-facing sonar (FFS) technology during their fishing events.

The motive for the shift?

Outlaw Outdoors founders Clint and Stacy Wade of Zavalla believe FFS has taken a heap of the fun out of fishing tournaments and could be a big part of the reason some tournament trails have witnessed significant declines in participation over the last few years.

The Wades started their tournament trail in 2016. It now includes nine events divided between Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend. Outlaw Outdoors averaged about 230 boats per event in 2020 and numbers have been falling ever since. The circuit averaged 110 boats in 2025.

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